Kentucky predicts longer wait for tax refunds

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Because of enhanced security features and fraud analysis tools, the Kentucky Department of Revenue is estimating that refunds may take a bit longer to process this year – up to 21 days for electronic filers if their return is error free.

“While electronic filing is the fastest way to get refunds, the department wants Kentucky taxpayers to be aware that refunds may not be processed as quickly as in the past,” said Dan Bork, commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Revenue.

“We have strong internal controls and we have implemented some new fraud detection processes, which protect both the taxpayer and the commonwealth of Kentucky from fraudsters,” Bork said in a press release.

In late January the department began accepting electronically filed tax returns and anticipates that most taxpayers will continue to file electronically. Electronic filing for individuals topped 85 percent last year.

According to the department, filing electronically is still safe and the quickest way for taxpayers to get their refund – and the only way to have their refund direct deposited. Refund requests from taxpayers who file paper forms could take six to eight weeks.

“Unfortunately cyber criminals are continually changing their tactics and see filing fraudulent returns as a way to steal money,” said Mack Gillim, executive director of the Office of Processing and Enforcement. “Delaying refunds by just a few weeks allows us to better detect attempts at identity theft and ensure taxpayer refunds do not fall needlessly into the hands of criminals.”

To contact the Kentucky Department of Revenue, call the taxpayer assistance line at 502-564-4581 or email individualincometax@ky.gov.